Thailand Finalizes Rules Paving Way for Bitcoin and Ether ETFs

Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission has finalized rules allowing crypto exchange-traded funds to list on the country's main stock exchange, limited initially to Bitcoin and Ether. According to Cointelegraph, the regulations are set to take effect on Oct. 16, 2026.

Under the newly finalized framework, crypto ETFs must be listed for trading exclusively on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Products linked to foreign crypto ETFs, such as depositary receipts, will not be permitted initially. Thai brokers remain barred from facilitating investments in overseas crypto ETFs for retail investors outside institutions and ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

The regulatory update opens a new route for Thai investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin and Ether through the domestic stock market. The SEC also amended its regulations to allow mutual funds and private funds to invest in Thai-established crypto ETFs, whereas previously they could invest only in foreign crypto ETFs.

Operational Requirements and Restrictions

The framework prohibits brokers from providing margin loans to purchase crypto ETFs and requires fund assets to be held with SEC-regulated digital asset custodians. Investors must receive comprehensive information about the products and confirm they understand the risks before trading.

Crypto ETFs must be managed as passive investment vehicles seeking to track the price of the underlying crypto asset. Funds must maintain net exposure to a single cryptocurrency averaging at least 80% of net asset value over each accounting year. The regulator consulted on the proposed principles in April and May, and on draft regulations in August and September, with most respondents supporting the proposals.

Key facts

• Thailand's SEC finalized rules for crypto ETFs limited initially to Bitcoin and Ether.
• The regulations take effect on Oct. 16, 2026, with trading exclusively on the Stock Exchange of Thailand.
• Mutual funds and private funds are now permitted to invest in Thai-established crypto ETFs.
• Funds must maintain net exposure to a single cryptocurrency averaging at least 80% of net asset value over each accounting year.